USC: 2024 Requirements, Scores & GPAs

This is the go-to guide for getting into University of Southern California (USC). We suggest you read until the end... Not only will we layout the exact GPA and test scores you should aim for when applying to USC, but we’ll also offer creative ways to help your application stand out from the pack. We breakdown USC statistics better than any article out there and show you how these have changed over time. Also, make sure to check out University of Southern California (USC) on CampusReel to see what it’s really like here. If you're interesting in transferring to USC, the read our transfer guide. You can also use the below calculator to help determine your likelihood of acceptance at USC

What GPA do you need to get into University of Southern California (USC)?

University of Southern California (USC)’s average GPA is 3.79. University of Southern California (USC) does require GPA. This average GPA means University of Southern California (USC) is very selective. Often times, schools in this range are trying to increase their selectivity and “prestige”. We can’t read the minds of USC application readers, but they likely want to increase the average GPA from 3.79 to 3.98 this year - to play it safe, we recommend striving for the 3.98 GPA.

*BEFORE CONTINUING PLEASE NOTE: GPA and “prestige” DO NOT mean a college is right for you. University of Southern California (USC) may seem amazing on paper, but you may hate it... That’s why 700,000 students transfer colleges every year - they end up going to the wrong school. It’s crucial to watch the videos on CampusReel and make sure you can envision yourself on USC’s campus. These USC admission statistics do not sufficiently tell you what a college or university is like.

What is University of Southern California (USC)’s acceptance rate?

Last year University of Southern California (USC)’s acceptance rate was 17.68. However, check out how the acceptance rate has changed over time.

As you can see, University of Southern California (USC) is a little easier to get into than last year.

Acceptance rate alone does not indicate your likelihood for getting into USC - it’s a very high level understanding of the true competition. Use the acceptance rate as a general guide for curating a list of 10-15 schools that fall into different ranges of competitiveness. Then, use the below data to get a deeper understanding of how your application will compare to the rest of the pool.

Does University of Southern California (USC) Require Test Scores?

University of Southern California (USC) requires that you either take the SAT or ACT. See the table below for how University of Southern California (USC)’s accepted students have performed on both tests. You may be wondering how many test scores should you submit. Generally, don’t freak out about taking the test too often. Industry consensus is that you can submit up to 6 tests as a reasonable limit.

University of Southern California (USC) SAT Requirements

University of Southern California (USC)’s average SAT score is 1390 - this is the sum of the math and reading portions of the SAT (the 1600 scale). Check out the below table for a deeper look into how students performed - it’s also very interesting to look at the average test score over time. The trend over time helps give insight into whether University of Southern California (USC) is getting more or less competitive.

University of Southern California (USC)’s average SAT score is 1390. To be a competitive applicant for University of Southern California (USC) your SAT score should come close to the average. If you’re closer to the 1280, you’re likely going to have a tougher time getting accepted. To consider University of Southern California (USC) a “target” school (one that you are likely to get into) you should aim for a score of 1500.

University of Southern California (USC) ACT Requirements

University of Southern California (USC)’s average ACT score is 99. To be a competitive applicant for University of Southern California (USC) your ACT score should come close to the average. If you’re closer to the 94, you’re likely going to have a tougher time getting accepted. To consider University of Southern California (USC) a “target” school (one that you have a good chance of getting into) you should aim for a score of 104.

How hard is it to get into University of Southern California (USC)?

As you can see from the data above, University of Southern California (USC) is exceptionally difficult to get into. Not only should you be aiming for a 3.79 but also SAT scores around 1390. Getting into University of Southern California (USC) is no easy feat and you will need to set yourself apart with more than just numbers and data. Read on to learn how.

University of Southern California (USC) Requirements

Now you know where you need to be for getting into University of Southern California (USC) from a grade and test score perspective. Let’s quickly outline what else you’ll need to provide for your application to get reviewed, and then we’ll move onto the most important section: differentiating your app.

How to get into USC

Follow these steps to maximize your chances of getting into USC. Everything you read above will help prepare you for what you need to achieve to have a shot at USC, but these steps will take you even further in applying that knowledge and differentiating your application.

Main Academic Excellence that is in line with USC admission standards.

1. Score at least a 1390 on the SAT or 99 on the ACT.
2. Maintain a GPA of at least a 3.79.

Join Extracurriculars that Align with USC’s Values.

1. Join your school band, a sports team or another group activity. If University of Southern California (USC) values music heavily, for example, then try to participate in an organization related to that topic.
2. Volunteer in your hometown. Los Angeles has tons of ways to be involved beyond just the college. University of Southern California (USC) wants applicants that are also good ambassadors for the school - they want students who will give back to the local community and broader Los Angeles area in general.
3. Spend your summer doing something that speaks to your values, personal growth, leadership qualities and other less quantifiable characteristics. USC needs to see past your test scores and grades - they need to know that you will be a valuable and contributing member of their community. You are more than grades and test scores - your experiences should demonstrate that.

Prepare Your Application

1. Write a stellar essay that shows University of Southern California (USC) something they can’t figure out from the other parts of your application. For a detailed guide on writing the best college essay, check this out.
2. Get teacher recs that speak to your character. If you know what you’re majoring in and include that in your USC app, try to have at least 1 recommendation from a teacher in that department.
3. Apply Before the Deadline. Too many students wait until the last minute to submit their application, and too much can go wrong during this precious time window. Since many students are applying on the last day, it’s possible that USC’s own system crashes. Don’t risk the added stress this can cause - submit your app a few days early.